Everyone has all nine intelligences – just like snowflakes are all made of water. Yet we’re all different, more inclined to learn in some ways over others.

To learn if you or your child are word-smart learners, ask yourself these questions:

Do you enjoy telling and hearing stories? Do you like to write? Are you sensitive to the musical qualities and rhythms of words?

Do you enjoy saying, hearing or seeing words? Are you skilled in the art of arguing and persuasion? What about explaining a concept, recounting an event or remembering trivia?

If these questions describe you (or your child), it probably means that linguistic intelligence is a major lens through which you learn and understand the world.

In short, linguistic intelligence is the capacity to use language to express what’s on your mind and to understand other people. Reading, writing, listening and public speaking are characteristic activities of word-smart people. These learners often think in words instead of pictures, and have highly developed auditory skills. They are effective communicators who enjoy growing their vocabulary and using language as their canvas of expression.

Here’s a short video explaining the linguistic intelligence:

If this describes you or your child, you now have a deeper insight into how to enhance learning experiences!

Understanding how our children are naturally inclined to learn is a gift. It allows us to create and seek out activities that complement each child’s strengths and interests.

Stay tuned for my next post, where we’ll explore fun activities parents can use to nurture their word-smart child’s intelligence!

*Parts of this post are taken from The Everything Parent’s Guide to Raising Mindful Children (Adams Media), a book I authored along with partner Jeremy Wardle. Order your copy here!

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How do you think Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences might benefit (or hinder) public school education? Share your opinions below!